A Two-Stage Distribution Network Planning Study on Coordinating the Optimization of Economic Efficiency and Reliability

As the core platform supporting diverse user-side loads, the distribution network plays a critical role in the development of new power systems. To address the significant variations in terminal users’ power supply reliability requirements, this article proposes a two-stage distribution network planning method that optimally coordinates economic efficiency and reliability. First, a multi-type load-specific reliability evaluation index system is established. Using the K-means clustering algorithm, combined with geographic coordinates and load attribute feature matrices, a precision power supply zoning scheme is implemented. Second, considering the diverse demands of different zones, a two-stage distribution network planning model is developed. Finally, the model is solved using a binary particle swarm optimization algorithm (BPSO), and simulation verification is conducted using a case study of an actual distribution network in a certain area of Tianjin. The results indicate that, compared to traditional single-objective planning schemes, the proposed method achieves an effective balance between economic efficiency and reliability. While ensuring the power supply level for critical users, it enhances the flexibility and science of distribution network planning, thereby providing a decision-making reference for the grid-based planning and construction of a smart distribution network.